🔗 Share this article

A runner

After a holiday period packed with rich foods and downtime, numerous individuals head into the new year aiming to get their fitness back on track.

However, is it possible that Artificial Intelligence be transforming the world of exercise by providing an alternative to human coaches?

Personalized Plans and Adaptable Schedules

One fitness enthusiast used an AI tool for last-minute preparation for the a major running event.

This young woman from Aberdare explained she liked the freedom to pose queries at all hours – a feature she believed was unavailable with a traditional coach.

She relied on an AI-driven running app that provided her personalised plans with voice guidance and pace setting for her first long-distance race in recent years.

She said she requested it to create a regimen combining cardio and the weight training, and it generated an 11-week plan tailored to her race date and objectives.

Leah then tweaked the schedule to fit her lifestyle, which she described was highly practical.

The following year, she chose a different tool because it was cheaper and she could consult it at any time. Her result was a full minute quicker than her target finish.

She said she wanted to avoid feeling pressure from a live instructor.

"With AI you have to motivate yourself, which I actually prefer," she remarked.

A weightlifter

Remarkable Strength Gains

Meanwhile, Another individual, 23, from Swansea, has been employing AI for his exercise and nutrition programs, and reported he has achieved peak strength, boosting his bench press from a lower weight to a much heavier load.

He turned to a AI assistant for assistance after being forced to walk a race.

"I just knew I had to sort myself out," he commented.

This no-cost application built a workout and diet plan personalized to his aims, and established structured routines.

"I work out for about 120 minutes a day and I've seen a real difference," he said.

The Cost Comparison: AI vs. Conventional Training

One recent survey in late 2024 analyzed prices for 17 of the biggest fitness chains and found the average membership cost was approximately forty pounds per month, based on basic memberships.

Fees ranged from a lower price at the cheapest provider to a premium rate at the most expensive.

According to further data, personal trainers determine their own fees, typically £30-£65 per 45-60 minute session in most areas and about a similar range in London.

Clients will often use a trainer one or two times a week and collaborate for a short period, however these agreements are completely flexible.

Dafydd Judd

The Irreplaceable Human Element

Personal trainer one experienced professional, based in Cardiff, said AI can be beneficial to speed up progress, but is convinced it will not supplant the personal interaction and responsibility that in-person coaching offers.

The 37-year-old, who has 12 years experience as a coach, focuses on older adults and injury rehabilitation. He mentioned some of his trainees also employ technology.

"In my opinion it's very valuable, more knowledge is positive," he said.

"I think the more that people are online the more they'll desire human connection because they want the warmth from the understanding that is absent from a machine," he continued.

Dafydd explained Artificial intelligence can inform clients and make coaching more efficient.

However, he argued real commitment comes when people show up in person for training.

"No matter how helpful as it is at 2am, a computer won't keep you accountable at 7am before work," Dafydd concluded.

For many, he said, the gym is a space to disconnect from devices and take a break from technology.